Sam Phan Bok, often referred to as the "Grand Canyon of Thailand," is located in Ban Pong Phae, Laeng Nam sub-district, Pho Sai District, Ubon Ratchathani Province, approximately 120 kilometers from the provincial capital. This remarkable geological formation is a massive rock reef on the Mekong River, and during the flooding season, these rocks are submerged underwater, eroded by the swirling current, creating over 3,000 small basins, known as "bok" in Lao, which translates to "basin" in English. This abundance of basins is how Sam Phan Bok got its name. As the dry season approaches, typically between January and April, the basins emerge from the water, transforming into a spectacular natural wonder in the heart of the Mekong River. Visitors flock to admire the intricate beauty of the eroded rocks, which have formed unique artistic shapes resembling circles, ovals, stars, and various imaginative designs. This breathtaking atmosphere can only be experienced during these months. Upon entering Sam Phan Bok, there is a rock resembling a dog's head. According to local legend, the offspring of a mythical serpent in the Mekong River wanted to excavate a waterway to create another river. They assigned a dog to guard the site during the digging process. Tragically, the dog died while on its watch, and in the end, it was transformed into the stone likeness of a dog we see today.
Photo Credit: ททท.สำนักงานอุบลราชธานี
Kaeng Song Khon, Sam Phan Bok
Province: Ubon Ratchathani